Just Encase They Think You’re Stupid is a fictional easy read on the real time hot environmental topic of green coatings solutions. It answers how and why potentially hazardous materials such as Asbestos, Lead Based Painted surfaces and other questionable building stock can benefit from the use of high performance, low VOC green coatings. The credible characters in this book explain the historic and present uses of the hazardous materials and discuss the complications associated with their removal. Common misconceptions are corrected revealing a simple method that can safely and cost effectively manage them in-place. Studies show that 42% of the CO2 emissions causing green house gases are coming from landfills filled with unwanted waste, much of it from roof tear offs. Simply said, green coatings can be used to recycle and renovate existing buildings and roofs, extending their life cycle and avoiding expensive demolition, tear offs, transportation and disposal.
“George, I consider your book a regular part of the reading for anyone who takes my lead class."
“Tick Tock” depicts time, energy and money wasted on trying to solve a problem that is virtually unsolvable. There is not enough money in the world to remove all the Asbestos and Lead-based paint from every building. The author has an interesting way to introduce a discussion on the control or management of hazardous materials such as Asbestos and Lead-based paint. The opening chapter begins with the stage set in an intense atmosphere only to level with a gathering of minds to discuss all the options concerning the prevention of spreading contaminants in our environment. The book emphasizes the need to step back and look at the safest method to avoid full removal of hazardous materials which can create problems such as, transportation, disposal, storage and replacement of building materials. Better to safely manage these hazardous materials in-place than exacerbate an already liable problem. It was a good read and I reread several sections if you can believe it. It is a great reference for any novice or professional who is looking for quick and concise comparative information. I teach EPA lead-based paint classes and as a Historic Preservation contractor for 20 years believe encasement is more economical and logical when it comes to preserving historical structures. Many studies have shown that preservation is more cost-effective in saving energy and the environment than new construction. There is a great truth in the philosophy of economist Donovan Rypkema, who specializes in the economic revitalization of city centers and the development of historic preservation, “The Greenest Building is the One still Standing”. I will suggest it to all my classes.
“ I so enjoyed your book – (and the title). As usual, everything you say makes sense. Also, I became more educated and aware of what you do.”